Scripture: Proverbs 3:5–8

Devotion

I remember first learning this passage as a child. Likewise, it’s probably one of the first passages you memorized, or at least one you’re very familiar with. But I’d also guess it’s one of the hardest to live out. Why? Because we want control. We want certainty. Yet Solomon says wisdom and even health come through trust: “This will be healing for your body and strengthening for your bones” (v.8).

Stress is a thief of joy and steals our confidence. Worry wears down both body and soul. Stress and worry are internal mental struggles that also affect us physically and spiritually. When we try to create our own paths and live contrary to God’s will, it’s like swimming upstream, leaving us tired and out of breath. However, when we surrender our understanding and put our trust in God, our bodies can breathe again. Spiritual trust leads to physical healing.

Think of trust like running a long race. If you begin your run with clenched fists and shallow breaths, you won’t last long. You have to relax into the rhythm. The same is true spiritually. When we release control from the fists of our plans, we move freely in God’s direction. True holistic health of heart, mind, body, and spirit comes not only from proper diet or daily discipline but also from dependence. Trust Him today. Let your heart and spirit rest in Him, and your body will follow.

A Personal Prayer

Father, I place my trust fully in You. I refuse to lean on my own understanding. Teach me to acknowledge You in every path because I know You will make my way straight. When worry and fear creep into my mind and heart, remind me that peace and healing flow from trusting in Your wisdom. Let my faith in You be a source of strength, renewal, and health to every part of me. Amen.

Pray for Our Neighbors: Both Hands

Both Hands is a nonprofit serving widows and orphans by organizing volunteer-led workdays that repair homes for widows while raising funds for adoptive families. Rooted in James 1:27, Both Hands demonstrates the gospel through acts of service and compassion that meet tangible needs and glorify Christ.

• Pray for the widows served by Both Hands to feel loved, supported, and valued through this ministry.
• Ask God to bless and encourage families pursuing adoption, strengthening them as they welcome children into their homes.
• Pray for volunteers and organizers to be filled with compassion, energy, and joy as they serve widows and orphans.

Pray for the Nations: Global Workers | Leon & Ellie Dowling

Leon and Ellie Dowling serve global workers around the world through short-term trips focused on worship leading, tech support, intercessory prayer, and encouragement. Their ministry strengthens and refreshes those serving on the field while also supporting families and teams in diverse global contexts.

• Pray for continued health, strength, and energy as they travel and serve global workers.
• Ask God to provide for their financial and ministry needs and to guide them with sensitivity to the Holy Spirit in every decision.
• Pray for Leon and Ellie to experience deep time in God’s Word and prayer, finding renewal and joy in His presence.